Ellington High School's Opening Knight Players are marking the 50th anniversary of A Charlie Brown Christmas by bringing the animated classic to life on stage.

Staying true to the classic was important to the cast, because they want to have the same broad appeal. The costumes, sets and sometimes-oversized props are unmistakably Peanuts, and the set for the tree-shopping scene is worth the price of admission alone.

"It's actually pretty cool, because it appeals to audiences of all different generations – my grandmother loves it, and little kids love it," said EHS junior Olivia Palmer, who plays Lucy Van Pelt. "It's kind of hard to play to such a broad spectrum of people, but it's interesting at the same time. We're trying to get right the really magical moments and iconic parts of the show that people associate with it."

Nick Cantin, also a junior, plays the title character. "It's amazing, but also surreal," he said. "It's incredible how it's coming together."

The script is exactly like the traditional cartoon everyone remembers, but with a few small added twists.

"We're trying to add little things here and there," Cantin said. "There are funny moments that we're adding to give more to the characters and make it our own. There's something going on between Pigpen and Schroeder, so [audiences] will want to look out for that."

The performances will take place at the Gordon C. Getchell Auditorium located at Ellington High School, on Dec. 4th at 7:30 p.m., Dec. 5 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Dec. 6 at 2p.m. Tickets, which can be purchased at the door, are $8 for adults and $6 for students and seniors.